National Indigenous Peoples Day (June 21) is a special occasion to learn more about the rich and diverse cultures, voices, experiences, and histories of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples. For list of events in Alberta, click here (Search by province and you will see events being held at towns and cities in Alberta)

Watch this TED talk video and reflect on your understanding of suffering and the blessings of God. Our relationship with God does not bubble-wrap us from the harsh realities of this life. God is not a god of uninterrupted success and good times but of faithfulness. He will walk with us no matter what we endure and through the experience of immense beauty and the darkest tragedy, we come to know His love which constantly surrounds us whether we are aware of it or not. And it’s often in the experience of darkness that we see His light.

In our churches, we see a crucified Christ which often just goes unnoticed in the background. But when we get plunged in deep suffering that same crucifix will hold a different meaning. God is not the god of the prosperity gospel. God is not going to bless us when we are good. Instead, whether we are good or bad, thriving or suffering, He is our life, our God, who is always with us… and we belong to Him. We open our hearts to God and live our lives with and for God. We are truly #blessed.

We acknowledge that Treaty 7 territory, on which we stand, is the ancestral land of the Indigenous Peoples and is common home to everyone in virtue of God our Creator's gracious gift. Learn more about Residential Schools and our ongoing work in healing and reconciliation in the Diocese of Calgary.